420 Kellogg Ave.

Ames, IA 50010

(515) 233-3141

www.yss.org

 

Why the need?

#1

Iowa ranks No. 1 in binge drinking.

1 IN 6

Struggle with substance abuse, with 90% starting as a teen

1 IN 5

People in the U.S. experience mental health issues

 

Mission

YSS creates hope and opportunity by putting kids first.

Key Services Provided

Young Adult Program: We offer Iowa’s only addiction treatment program designed for young adults ages 18 to 24.

Adolescent Program: Caters to young people ages 12 to 18, helping them develop age-appropriate relapse prevention strategies.

Crisis Stabilization: Immediate housing and clinical support for teens (12-18) experiencing a mental health, behavioral health, or substance use issue.

Virtual Intensive Outpatient Program: Structured support for teens and young adults who need more than weekly therapy but do not require residential care. Combines group and individual counseling with flexibility through in-person and virtual options.

Key Audiences Served

Ember Recovery, Residential Addiction Treatment, provides a successful, individualized, and evidence-based recovery program in a safe, homelike atmosphere for young people ages 12 to 17 and a separate young adult program for young people ages 18 to 24.

Ways to Give


What are the most immediate needs to support your organization?

Our most immediate needs are hiring committed professionals — including those with lived experience — for Ember Recovery to meet the growing demand for youth services. We also need greater community awareness to increase referrals and connect more youth and young adults with recovery. Finally, we are seeking funding for Phase 2 of Ember Recovery Campus, which will strengthen our full continuum of care, add a “Maintenance Shop” Training Center for workforce development, and build an endowment to ensure long-term safety, security, and sustainability — making Iowa one of the best places in the country for youth to recover.

 
 

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

  • Nahla Atroon

  • Jim Baker

  • Joseph Barrett

  • Jim Black

  • Jeff Brinkley

  • Lane Danielsen

  • Tim Day

  • Meri Edel

  • Sharron Evans

  • Laura Jolly

  • Todd Klindt

  • Christy Krause

  • Allison Ostendorf

  • Randi Peters

  • Sean Reeder

  • Matt Aitchison

  • Steve Snyder

  • Davonte Townsend

  • Christine Trujillo

  • William Underwood

  • Dale Woolery

Senior Leadership

  • Andrew Allen

  • Aaron Blass

  • Lisa Hoffman

  • Belinda Meis

  • Mark VanderLinden